Concerns over the addictive nature of social media have prompted Australia to implement a ban on certain platforms for children under the age of 16, effective from December 10, 2025. This significant move follows revelations from internal documents showing that major tech companies are aware of the potentially harmful effects of their applications on young users. As families brace for this change, experts are offering guidance on how to navigate the withdrawal that many children may experience.
Internal files obtained during a legal battle in the United States indicate that platforms such as TikTok and Snapchat have knowingly designed their applications to be habit-forming. A recent study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health suggests that social media can be as addictive as some hazardous substances. While Dr. Anne-Noël Samaha, a leading neuroscientist, hesitates to label social media as “addictive,” she acknowledges that these applications are indeed “habit forming,” leading to withdrawal symptoms when users attempt to stop.
The Australian government has established that social media companies must take reasonable measures to prevent users under 16 from accessing their platforms, or face fines that could reach AUD 49.5 million. As parents prepare for their children’s potential reactions to losing access to these apps, understanding the mechanisms behind social media addiction is crucial.
Understanding Social Media Addiction
Social media companies design their applications to engage users with features that trigger dopamine responses in the brain. Notifications, likes, and comments create a cycle of reinforcement that keeps users returning. Internal documents reveal that TikTok has adjusted its notification strategies to target users who have been inactive for a mere few hours, while Snapchat has experimented with notifications to optimize user engagement.
Dr. Samaha explains that the dopamine released by these interactions does not equate to happiness; rather, it fosters a sense of desire. “Dopamine makes you want things,” she states, emphasizing that tech companies exploit this mechanism. Gaia Bernstein, a professor specializing in technology and privacy, notes that features like infinite scrolling and autoplay are specifically designed to captivate users, particularly children.
In a report submitted for a significant social media addiction lawsuit in California, Dr. Stuart Murray highlighted that the adolescent brain is particularly susceptible to sensation-seeking behavior. He noted that the continuous novelty provided by social media can enhance this behavior, making it difficult for young users to disengage.
Preparing for Withdrawal
As the ban approaches, experts are advising parents on how to help their children cope with the potential withdrawal symptoms. These may include feelings of restlessness, irritability, and a sense of loss. While Dr. Samaha reassures parents that adjustments will likely take only weeks, she emphasizes the importance of preparing for this transition.
To ease the process, parents are encouraged to proactively explain the reasons behind the ban, framing it as a protective measure for their children’s well-being. Waiting periods of two to five minutes before responding to urges can alleviate cravings, as immediate access to devices can trigger the cycle of desire.
When children experience emotional distress, it is vital for parents to remain calm and supportive. Dr. Samaha suggests validating their feelings while offering reassurance. Furthermore, parents should model healthy technology use themselves, as children often mirror adult behaviors.
Experts stress the importance of filling the time previously spent on social media with engaging real-world activities. This could involve enrolling children in extracurricular activities or spending quality time together. Additionally, parents should help children establish new habits to replace their old routines involving social media.
As this unprecedented ban takes effect, experts agree that the collective experience of children across Australia could mitigate feelings of isolation. The transition may present challenges, but many believe it will ultimately foster healthier relationships with technology among young users.
In response to inquiries, representatives from Meta and TikTok did not provide comments. However, Snap Inc. issued a statement emphasizing that features like Snapstreaks are intended to encourage meaningful interactions among friends, asserting that they are voluntary and private.
With the ban on the horizon, the ongoing discourse surrounding the impact of social media on youth continues to unfold, prompting urgent conversations about technology, mental health, and the responsibilities of tech companies.
